Monnickendammergat and Polder Katwoude Hogedijk Loop

Starting from the outskirts of Monnickendam, a charming historic town just north of Amsterdam, the Monnickendammergat and Polder Katwoude Hogedijk Loop offers a gentle 11 km (about 6.8 miles) circuit with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities. The trailhead is conveniently located near the Monnickendam bus station, which is easily reached by public transport from Amsterdam Central Station in under 30 minutes. For those arriving by car, parking is available near the marina and the town center.

Navigating the Route

The loop begins by skirting the edge of Monnickendam, a town known for its 17th-century architecture and picturesque harbor. The route quickly transitions into the open polder landscape, following the Hogedijk, an ancient raised dike that has protected the low-lying land from the encroaching waters of the Zuiderzee for centuries. Hikers can use HiiKER for precise navigation, as the path occasionally branches off onto smaller dike roads and grassy embankments.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

At approximately 2 km (1.2 miles), the trail passes the Monnickendammergat, a unique brackish water inlet formed after a dike breach in the 1916 flood. This area is now a haven for birdlife, especially in spring and autumn when migratory species stop to rest and feed. Bring binoculars to spot avocets, spoonbills, and various ducks.

Continuing north, the route skirts the edge of the Katwoude polder, a classic Dutch reclaimed landscape characterized by wide, open fields, grazing cattle, and traditional windmills. The Hogedijk itself is a living piece of history, with sections dating back to the Middle Ages. Interpretive signs along the way explain the region’s ongoing battle with water and the engineering feats that have shaped the land.

Nature and Wildlife

The polder is a patchwork of meadows and drainage canals, supporting a rich variety of flora and fauna. In summer, the fields are dotted with wildflowers and the air is filled with the calls of lapwings and godwits. The ditches are home to frogs and dragonflies, while the occasional stork can be seen foraging in the grass.

Practical Considerations

The entire loop is flat, with well-maintained paths and dike roads suitable for walking year-round. There are several benches and picnic spots along the route, particularly near the water’s edge. Monnickendam offers cafes and shops for refreshments before or after your walk. Restrooms are available in the town center and at the marina.

For those relying on public transport, buses from Amsterdam run frequently to Monnickendam, with stops near the trailhead. Cyclists and drivers will find ample bike racks and parking facilities in town. The route is exposed to the elements, so bring windproof clothing and sun protection, especially outside the shelter of the town.

This loop is ideal for anyone seeking a peaceful walk through classic Dutch landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife and learn about the region’s fascinating relationship with water.